Richard J. Eustice

Richard James Eustice, age 69, of Clarion, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on Friday, January 16, 2026, at his home. Born on February 20, 1956, in Brookville, Richard lived a life defined by loyalty, love, and showing up fully for the things that mattered. He worked for Owens-Illinois Glass Plant 17 in Clarion as their storing and shipping supervisor until its closure, remaining until the very end as the last man to leave the building. A quiet but powerful reflection of his integrity, work ethic, and character. At the heart of Richard’s life was his love for his wife, Dawn Cumberland Eustice. Together for thirty-eight years, their relationship was built on deep friendship, laughter, shared adventure, and unwavering devotion. They loved fiercely and lived fully, creating a life rich with memories side by side. Richard and Dawn shared a deep love of travel and exploration, embracing the world together with curiosity and joy. Their journeys took them to the Bahamas, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Canada, Mexico, Germany, Ireland, England, Scotland, Australia, the Netherlands, Poland, and Brazil, each destination another chapter in a life well lived and deeply shared. No matter where they went, home was always wherever the two of them were together. Music was not just something Richard did; it was a large part of who he was. He sang and played guitar in bands his entire life, sharing songs, stories, and stages with friends who became family. Most recently, he found profound joy performing alongside his daughter, surrounded by some of his finest friends. He deeply loved his fans and cherished every person who came to listen, never taking a single moment or audience for granted. Above all else, Richard loved his family. He was the proud father of Joel Matthew Eustice (or as they liked to call each other, Herman & Chuck) and Jessie Rebecca Eustice, who were born to Cynthia (Leighton/Eustice) Yoder. Richard welcomed Jessie’s partner, Rich Conner, as family. He was a devoted papa to Emerson Elizabeth Eustice (his GRANDdaughter, which is better than a normal daughter because she is GRAND), and a cherished step-grandfather to Ava and Matthew Raymond. Richard is also survived by his three sisters, Jennie Lou, Marcia, and Beverly; a half-brother, Jason; a step-sister, Debbie Mullins; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins whom he loved dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, the former Doris Ellen Reynolds and Stewart James "Jimmy" Eustice. Richard’s voice will never fade. It lives on in the songs he sang, the music he shared, the love he gave, and the life he built, especially the extraordinary life he shared with his family. It was a song well sung, a love well lived, and a legacy that will carry on in harmony. In fact, he often said that if there were ever words etched in stone to mark his life, though being buried was never what he wanted, these would be the ones: "He could sing". And anyone who ever heard him knew it was true. When all is said and done, he will always be remembered exactly the way he wanted. The Robert V. Burns Funeral Home in Clarion has the distinct honor of serving the family, and cremation care has been entrusted to the RV Burns Crematorium, Inc. Per Richard's lifelong wishes, there will be no public viewing or services. What there will be is one hell of a party in the warmer months, just how he would like it. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his honor to a youth music organization of one’s choice.

Richard J. Eustice

February 20, 1956 - January 16, 2026